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An email circulation list with currently over 1500 contacts provides regular information on folk events across southern Devon roughly within a 30 mile radius as the crow flies of Totnes. To join the list, email johnculf@harbertonfolk.co.uk for further information. Still relevant parts of the most recent emailed circulars are reproduced below, along with a developing Draft of the next, but check out the Diary for full listings.
The e-circulars are sent on a regular basis, usually one every 7-14 days, not more than one per week apart from exceptional circumstances (and never with any attachments).

Circulars dated:   25/5/13   16/5/13   2/5/13

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DRAFT NEXT Harberton Folk Circular - ??day ?? June 2013
Only a selection of events follows below - the full open-ended southern Devon Folk Diary listings appear on www.harbertonfolk.co.uk.

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25/5/13

Harberton Folk Circular - Saturday 25 May 2013
Only a selection of events follows below - the full open-ended southern Devon Folk Diary listings appear on www.harbertonfolk.co.uk.

23-31 May 2013 - Exmouth Festival
A huge range of arts events including various folk. See www.exmouthfestival.org.uk. Note that the downloadable PDF programme is nearly 8MB. Alternatively, a summary of only the music events (all genres) can be found at www.harbertonfolk.co.uk/richie.htm, courtesy of Richie Evans. These include The Alchemist's Wardrobe, Exmouth Shanty Men (26/5), Rory McLeod (26/5), Phillip Henry & Hannah Martin, Braga Tanga, Martin Weller, Josie Lloyd, Gadjo.

Friday 31 May 2013 8pm - Fake Thackray - Scoriton Village Hall, near Buckfastleigh (map)
The wonderfully irreverent songs, humour and sprit of Jake Thackray live on in John Watterson as 'Fake Thackray' - on the loose after supporting Fairport Convention on their Winter Tour. Tickets £8.50 tel: 01364 631288.

Friday 31 May 2013 - Bootleg Swing Band - The Kenn Centre, Kennford, nr Exeter
Doors 8pm. Gypsy Jazz swing music with an exciting six piece band. Bar available. Vintage dress optional. Entrance £5.

Saturday 1 June 2013 - Martyn Joseph - Cullompton Community Centre, Pye Rd, Cullompton, Devon EX15 1JX
Martyn Joseph is playing his first show at Cullompton’s new Community Centre (solo concert) www.martynjoseph.com. Tickets £15, available from Mike & Pat Gleeson 01884 33969 / 07814 043745 or online at www.wegottickets.com/event/212598.

Sunday 2 June 2013 7.45pm - Sara Grey - Folk on the Moor, Westward Inn, Lee Mill PL21 9EE (map)
Hailing from N Carolina but a long term resident of Scotland, Sara is steeped in the traditions from all over the USA, England, Scotland and Wales. Her singing is accompanied by a fine banjo flailing technique and she is an accomplished story teller. Her whole performance exudes skill and warmth. Book by email folkonthemoor1@gmail.com. www.moorfolk.co.uk.

Sunday 2 June 2013 7.30pm - The Wren Band Tour 2013: "When the Moon is Full" - Northcott Theatre, Exeter (map)
Stocker Road EX4 4QB. Exploring a rich vein of myth and legend through songs, tunes and stories, with special emphasis on the tales of Dartmoor, inspired by the writings of the nineteenth century folklorist, hymn writer, novelist and folk song collector Sabine Baring-Gould, most notably The Book of Were-Wolves. Wren Band features internationally-acclaimed duo Marilyn Tucker & Paul Wilson, award-winning Border piper David Faulkner, dynamic fiddlers Nick Wyke & Becki Driscoll, mandolin virtuoso Matt Norman, and the distinctive voices of Rosa Rebecka and Sarah Owen. £14/£12. Details/tickets www.exeternorthcott.co.uk/wren-band-when-the-moon-is-full or 01392 493493. www.wrenmusic.co.uk

Thursday 6 June 2013 - Kieran Goss - Blue Walnut Cafe, Chelston, Torquay TQ2 6HS (map)
One of Ireland's most romantic singer/songwriters. Has supported Fairport. Samples www.myspace.com/kierangoss. Bookings 01803 394113 www.bluewalnuttorquay.co.uk

7-9 June 2013 - Bradninch Music Festival
Details www.bradninchevents.org/bradninch-music-festival.

Saturday 8 June 2013 - Celtic Fiddle Festival - The Watermark, Ivybridge (map)
Celtic Fiddle Festival is Kevin Burke (Ireland), Christian Lemaître (Brittany), André Brunet (Québec), Nicolas Quemener (Brittany, France). Called “three of the finest folk violinists anywhere” by The Washington Post, Celtic Fiddle Festival celebrates the violin in all its globe-trotting variations. Fiddlers Kevin Burke (Ireland), Christian Lemaître (Brittany, France) and André Brunet (Quebec, Canada) showcase a fascinating juxtaposition of international and individual styles. Accompanying them is Nicolas Quemener, (Brittany, France) a master open-tuning guitarist. Box office 01752 892220. www.ivybridgewatermark.co.uk/concerts-live-events

Saturday 8 June 2013 7.30pm - Ceilidh with Jigs for Gigs - Budleigh Salterton Public Hall
Caller Gill Spence. Raising money for WaterAid. BYO drink. Snacks for sale. Tickets £6 advfrom 01395 276569, 01395 272697 or 01395 225075, £7 door.

Saturday 8 June 2013 - Ruarri Joseph - Barrel House, Totnes (map)
Barrel House friend and Totnes favourite Ruarri Joseph returns to the newly restored Ballroom with his new album ‘Brother’. The record, Ruarri’s fourth studio album to date, is a record inspired and propelled by ideas of friendship, relationships and family. Doors 8pm. Details www.wegottickets.com/event/220608. Tel. 01803 849290 www.barrelhousetotnes.co.uk

Friday 14 June 2013 8pm - Kevara - St John's Church Hall, Bridgetown Hill, Totnes
Klezmer Ceilidh band with caller Pam Hayes. Entrance on the door £7.50 / conc £6. For further information telephone 07790906118. BYO refreshments.

Friday 14 June 2013 8pm - Double Bill: Nigel "Stripey Howling" Hancock / Chris Billings - Ley Arms Folk & Acoustic Music Club, Ley Arms, Kenn nr Exeter EX6 7UW (map)
Nigel "Stripey Howling" Hancock: Exeter's own "king of the professional buskers" of local and international fame. Performs tunes and songs of a ragtime and blues style plus plenty of humour. http://stripeyhowlinghancock.50webs.com/index.html. Chris Billings: Local singer and one of the finest guitarists in the area. Has performed with many others including John James, John Asprey, Steve Ewart and Julian Piper. Tickets £6, info/ticket reservations contact: leyarmsfolk@hotmail.co.uk or 01392 210983 (The Cornelius Family).

Saturday 15 June 2013 8pm - Blue Jewel - South Devon Arts Centre, Ford Road, Totnes (map)
Formed in 2010 by Steve Banks (The Carnival Band, Chanter), folk-acoustic four-piece Blue Jewel have been delighting audiences with their quality of musicianship and uplifting performances, including knock-out sets at the Teignmouth Folk Festival and Dart Music Festival last summer. The programme will include tracks from their forthcoming second album, John Smart’s Bottle. www.bluejewel.info. Tickets £6 adv, £8 door. Full details, ticketing etc. www.southdevonarts.co.uk

Friday 21 June 2013 - Blazin' Fiddles - Exeter Phoenix (map)
Five fiddle players front this fiery outfit, highlighting the distinctive flavours of music from the Highlands and Islands of Scotland. The regional styles of each fiddler are exposed before a combined explosion of music as they all get together. ‘The Led Zeppelin of the folk world’ The Scotsman. www.exeterphoenix.org.uk/events/blazin-fiddles. Box office 01392 667080.

21-23 June 2013 - 15th Teignmouth Folk Festival
Tickets now on sale – visit www.teignmouthfolk.co.uk for a booking form or phone festival secretary Anne Gill 01803 290427. Concerts at The Carlton Theatre: Friday concert Jim Causley, Emma Sweney & Matheu Watson. Saturday concert The Tannahill Weavers support Geoff Lakeman. Sunday afternoon concert Andy Irvine with support Nick Scott & Mike Cosgrave. Saturday night Ceilidh with Mrs. Midnight and caller Mike Boston. Other artists attending the festival – The Old Gaffers, The City of Plymouth Pipe Band, FireStone, The John White Band and lots more.

19/20 July 2013 - Chagstock Festival - Chagford
Line-up includes Billy Bragg. Details www.chagstock.info

July 25-28 2013 - Quest Festival - Newton Abbot Racecourse
"The UK's best mix of Mind Body Spirit, Music and Dance Festival". Speakers, facilitators, musicians, poets, storytellers. legends. www.questuk.co.uk

2-9 August - Sidmouth Folk Week
The taster programme is now available on www.sidmouthfolkweek.co.uk.

9-11 August 2013 - Dartmoor Folk Festival
Invited guests (to be confirmed): Jim Moray; Old Swan Band; Brendan Power & Tim Edey; Trio Threlfall; Peter & Barbara Snape; Lauren McCormick Band; Gadarene; Keith Donnelly; Jim Causley & Nick Marshall (The Poetry of Charles Causley); Dartmoor Pixie Band; Tony Beard; Entertainingly Different; Dave Wills, plus morris and dance teams. www.dartmoorfolkfestival.co.uk

Otterton Mill nr Budleigh Salterton (map)
has recently announced its summer courtyard music programme comprising:
11/7 Peter Knight's Gigspanner; 18/7 My Darling Clementine; 1/8 Maurice Dickson & Catherine Ashcroft; 9/8 Eduardo Niebla (with Carl Herring); 15/8 Jane Taylor Band; 29/8 Martin Simpson. More details here soon, but in the meantime see www.ottertonmill.com for full details.

Adventures in Music - a world and folk music series for under 5s and their grown-ups
At Plymouth City Museum, 11am. These 45-minute events feature live music and participation in a child-friendly atmosphere, providing fun introductions to different types of music, instruments and cultures as we listen and learn together. Taking inspiration from our world cultures and social history collections, join us on an adventure as we bring the world to Plymouth. £4.50 per adult. £3 per child. See www.plymouth.gov.uk/museummusic for more info. First three events:
31 May - Mbira Magic with Chartwell Dutiro www.plymouth.gov.uk/eventitem?newsid%3D308981
28 June - Indian Inspiration with Arun Ghosh www.plymouth.gov.uk/eventitem?newsid%3D310922

Session news
A reminder that detailed listings of literally dozens of pub sessions right across our area can be found on www.flaxey-green.co.uk (along with a wealth of other useful Devon folk information).

More in brief - Full Diary listings and details on www.harbertonfolk.co.uk
Sunday 26 May 2.45pm - The Exmouth Shanty Men - Manor Gardens, Exmouth
Sunday 26 May - Trade Winds - Tradesmans Arms, Scoriton
Wednesday 29 May - The Exmouth Shanty Men Afloat - Stuart Line Cruises, Exmouth
Wednesday 29 May - Songwriters Open Mic Night - Blue Walnut Cafe, Chelston, Torquay
Wednesday 29 May - Charlie Parr - Bridge Inn, Topsham, Exeter
Thursday 30 May - Mad Dog Mcrea - Barrel House, Totnes
Friday 31 May - Seth Lakeman & Band - RHS Garden Rosemoor, Gt. Torrington
Friday 7 June - Hillfolk Noir - Globe Hotel, Topsham, Exeter
Friday 7 June - Jim Causley with Julie Murphy & Ceri Owen-Jones: 'The Poetry of Charles Causley' - Plough Arts Centre, Gt. Torrington
Friday 7 June - Simon Mayor & Hilary James - Millbrook Village Hall, The Parade, Millbrook
Wednesday 12 June - Phil Beer & Johnny Coppin - Clyst St George Parish Hall
Thursday 13 June - Steve Knightley - Matthews Hall, Topsham

John Culf
johnculf@harbertondevon.co.uk
www.harbertondevon.co.uk
www.harbertonfolk.co.uk
If you'd like to be removed from the Harberton Folk email circulation, please follow this 'Unsubscribe link': www.harbertonfolk.co.uk/unsubscribe.htm.

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16/5/13

Harberton Folk Circular - Thursday 16 May 2013
Only a selection of events follows below - the full open-ended southern Devon Folk Diary listings appear on www.harbertonfolk.co.uk.

15/16 June 2013 - d'Accord! Summer Bal and Picnic - Bratton Clovelly Parish Hall nr Okehampton
With indoor & outdoor camping. 2pm to 12pm. Afternoon: open mic, bring and share supper, evening bal with special guests Blanche Rowen and Mike Gulston and Poisson Rouge. Sunday: Big Breakfast followed by a walk round the lakes. Details www.frenchdanceexeter.com.

Wednesday 17 June 2013 8pm - Hat Fitz n’ Cara - Malt House, Globe Hotel, Topsham, Exeter EX3 0HR (map)
‘Thirties Blues meets Irish Folk ! Hat Fitz hammering his beaten up National Steel geetar ( the dent is where Fitz had an unfortunate brush with a drunken ‘abbo’) beside Cara his golden locked Irish colleen on her creaky vintage drums, is a rare buzz. An absolute good time blast ! Tickets : £10 adv (£12 door) from Topsham Books 01392 877895.

Thursday 11 July 2013 8pm - Peter Knight's Gigspanner - Otterton Mill nr Budleigh Salterton (map)
Contact 01395 568521. www.ottertonmill.com

Wednesday 17 July 2013 - Jeff Lang - Malt House, Globe Hotel, Topsham, Exeter EX3 0HR (map)
Another one of our favourite Aussies, not to mention THE most original and finger bending Weissenborn player on the planet, Jeff’s an awe inspiring guitarist and story teller, whose vividly portrayed songs are just a technicolour blast. Tickets : £12 adv (£13 door) from Topsham Books 01392 877895.

July 25-28 2013 - London Song Company Summer Songwriting Residential - Seale Hayne, Newton Abbot TQ12 6NQ
Entitled “Making Everything Count” this residential course takes place in beautiful grounds and buildings. Join Reg Meuross, Julian Marshall, Henry Priestman, Juliet Russell, Chris Paradox and others for workshops, inspiration, walks, song surgeries, lyric writing, musical skills development, storytelling through song, gigs, BBQs, chill out/writing time, collaboration and more. Details www.regmeuross.com.

Balkan and Gypsy Dance Workshops - Exeter
Taking place at St Matthews Church Hall, Lower Summerlands, Exeter EX1 2LJ  on the following Sunday evenings: 30 June, 14 July, 28 July; 7.30-9.30pm. Located in Newtown - free parking opposite the hall. Cost £7. For more information / to confirm attendance please call Fiona Parr 01626 821110 or Kushuma Holyoak 01837 82001.

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2/5/13

Harberton Folk Circular - Thursday 2 May 2013
Once again lots of new events amongst the reminders below - the full open-ended southern Devon Folk Diary listings appear on www.harbertonfolk.co.uk.

Thursday 20 June 2013 9pm - Hat Fitz & Cara - B-Bar, Barbican Theatre, Plymouth (map)
Award-winning husband-and-wife folk-blues duo are surefire favourites and big friends of ours, performing their intoxicating and energetic blend of roots musics. Fitz is from the Australian Outback, performing on guitar and vocals, whilst Cara's Irish tones complement hubby's sounds perfectly, as she keeps up the rhythmn on the drums and the washboards. Tel. 01752 242021. Details www.wegottickets.com/event/220940.

Thursday 1 August 2013 8pm - Alasdair Fraser & Natalie Haas - The Old Chapel, Sand Lane, Calstock PL18 9QX (map)
Alasdair Fraser is recognized throughout the world as one of the finest fiddle players Scotland has ever produced. His name is synonymous with the vibrant cultural renaissance which is transforming the Scottish music scene. Now touring regularly with Fraser and creating a buzz at festivals and in concert halls throughout Europe and her native North America, Natalie Haas is in the vanguard of young cellists who are re-defining the role of the cello in traditional music. Their gig at Calstock Arts is a preview performance before moving on to the prestigious Sidmouth Folk Festival. Full details www.calstockarts.org/thursday-1-august-alasdair-fraser-and-natalie-haas.

Friday 21 September 2013 - Nos Lowen 'Big Nos' - Sterts Theatre, Upton Cross, Liskeard (map)
Nos Lowen is a 'new tradition' of Cornish dancing, based firmly in the past but also embracing the future. 'Big Nos' is a quarterly celebration of Nos Lowen featuring many of the Cornish groups who have sprung up as a result of it. An event for all the family and all age groups, the dances are easy to follow with the emphasis on fun. Six bands will be performing including Skillywidden (Dalla and friends) one of the best loved Cornish bands; Tredanek, a new band of experienced musicians taking Cornish music into the realms of folk rock; Kescana with their unique, rhythmic, a capella sound using Cornish clogs as percussion, plus others yet to be announced. www.sterts.co.uk

Richie's listings for live music in May in East Devon
will be available here shortly: www.harbertonfolk.co.uk/richie.htm.

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Totnes FM Studio Lounge is moving - and growing!
As of Friday 31 May, The Totnes FM Studio Lounge is moving a short distance into new premises in Ford Road on the Southern Industrial Estate and will become the brand new 300-seat South Devon Arts Centre - www.southdevonarts.co.uk - with broadcasting legend Bob Harris hosting the launch night. An extensive and varied range of events is already lined up, including Blue Jewel on 15 June and The Martin Harley Band on 20 June.

Session news:
Malborough (nr Kingsbridge):- The newly refurbished Royal Oak, Malborough is ready so the next second Wedensday session will be on Weds 10th April at 8.30 pm.
New sessions:
Bradninch (nr Exeter):- The White Lion, 26 High Street EX5 4QL (01392 881263) - Trad session (gerard_joy@btinternet.com): Second Sunday of the month (September to April), 3pm to 6-ish. “Traditional music session around the fire in a friendly pub (English, Welsh, Irish, Scottish, Breton music).”
Plymouth:- The Morley Arms, Billacombe Road PL9 7HP (01752 401191) - Bluegrass, blues and skiffle session: First Sunday of the month, 3pm to 6pm. (Reminder of existing session here: Music at The Morley: Third Sunday of the month, 3pm to 6pm. Open acoustic session. “Come along whether you be a player, singer, or enthusiastic hand-clapper or egg-shaker.”).

Bodmin Folk Club on the move again
(from the Masons Arms) "From 5th April we shall be at Syd's Bar 11, Omaha Road, Bodmin, PL31 1ES. There is currently no landline available, so any enquiries to Mike Freemantle 01726 816454 please. Venue map link: www.streetmap.co.uk/map.srf?X=207707&Y=66052&A=Y&Z=110A. The room will hold 80 people, has a decent sized stage and professional lights."

Step Dance & Exercise Sessions, Thursdays, Plympton
Learn a new skill and develop a talent that also helps you exercise and keep fit. Step Dance is for Men & Women. Sessions are £5.00/person or £4.00/person block booking paid in advance. Starts 11th April and every Thursday 7.45-8.45pm at Harewood House, Plympton PL7 2AS. For more info about this fun way to exercise and also develop your dance skills contact Janet or John on 07778 105739.

Buckfastleigh Mixed Voice A Cappella Choir - Recruiting
‘The Lost Sound’ is a small (24 singers), mixed voice, a cappella choir based in Buckfastleigh with a strong folk element. They have received an extremely warm response to their performances throughout 2012, especially from The Dart Music festival and Night of 1000 voices at Exeter Cathedral. They are looking to take on new singers in the Alto and Female tenor sections who have some harmony experience and who can learn quickly. For more info see www.singingandbreathing.co.uk or call Sandra on 01364 643105.

North Devon/West Somerset music listings - Listings of regular and special music events for the above area can always be found at www.shammickacoustic.org.uk (then click on 'Local Events').

New acoustic jam session starting in January - Royal Oak, Malborough nr Kingsbridge
A new acoustic jam session is starting up at the Royal Oak, Malborough on 2nd Wednesday of each month from 8.30pm, starting January 9th. All styles of music and songs from folk to blues and rock. Come along to play/sing or just listen. For more details ring Mahrey Berthoud 01548 853593.

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Session news - Galmpton
Every first Sunday of the month a folk session with Swashbuckle and members of Newton Bushel Morris at The Manor Inn, Galmpton, 2.30-5.30pm. John Turk and Adrian Morris (ex Faraway Folk) now joined by brilliant fiddle of Mark Walpot from Holland. All singers welcome.

Kingsbridge - Crabshell Concerts Update
Due to planned building/extension work at The Crabshell, Neil will not now be running any concerts there during 2013. The three that had been booked have been cancelled: Dick Plank & Keith Hills; Martin Carthy; Tom McConville & David Newey.

New club/session listing - Kingsteignton
Meeting every Monday night 8-11pm, except Bank Holidays, at the Passage House Inn, Kingsteignton TQ12 3QH. Open for all, Entrance £1 which includes the raffle. All acoustic musicians. Full PA provided. At present every Monday is a singers/performers night, but next year we hope to include some guest nights. Come along and support live music in Devon. For further information call Nigel on 07989 180091 or see www.myspace.com/acoustic_warehouse.

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Important news concerning the Seven Stars Folk & Acoustic Music Club (Kennford)
The Bad News: The Club run by The Cornelius Family on the last Friday of the month at the Seven Stars Inn Kennford has been cancelled due to circumstances beyond their control.
The Good News: They have secured a new venue at The Ley Arms (The Otter Room), Kenn, EX6 7UW (map)
The club name will be changing to 'Ley Arms Folk & Acoustic Music Club' with the first meeting on Friday 30 November 2012 8pm, free  admission. Club runs on last Friday of the month (except 21 December 2012). Contact: email: sevenstarsfolk@hotmail.co.uk (new email tba), tel. 01392 210983
Guest Night - Friday 15 February 2013: Paul Downes (details to follow).

UK Folk Music / Folkwaves / Mike Harding being replaced by Mark Radcliffe
Some months ago a Harberton Folk correspondent (thanks, Phil) told me about a folk website he'd discovered: www.ukfolkmusic.co.uk. I've just revisited the site and found that it now includes an online monthly version of the popular long-running radio programme 'Folkwaves' formerly broadcast on BBC Radio Derby, hosted by Mick Peat and Lester Simpson: www.ukfolkmusic.co.uk/magazine/folkwaves. Six months' worth are currently available to play. I'd personally recommend a listen. The website also gives the news that Mark Radcliffe is taking over from Mike Harding on Wednesdays at 7pm from the New Year.

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Plymouth monthly session reminder
Sunday 21 October 3-6pm - Morley Music - The very excellent monthly open music session continues, and we invite one and all to join us, warm and cosy, picking strings, blowing whistles, banging drums, and generally making merry, as we embrace the darker evenings and the approach of winter. Put it, and every Third Sunday of the month, in your diary. Please pass this info on to anyone else, player, singer, enthusiastic hand-clapper or egg-shaker you think might be interested. The venue is The Morley Arms, Billacombe Road, Plymouth PL9 7HP.

Plymouth monthly storytell reminder
Tuesday 30 October 8-11pm - Twisted Tales - British Summer (Ha!) Time will have ended, and the long, dark evenings begun, so join us in the snug, candle-lit atmosphere of the Morley's back room for our Last Tuesday Adults Only Storytelling events, and listen to a multitude of stories from around the globe. - £3 -The venue once again is The Morley Arms. www.stonesoupstorytelling.org.uk

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North Devon/West Somerset music listings
Listings of regular and special music events for the above area can always be found at www.shammickacoustic.org.uk (then click on 'Local Events').

Note to (potential) contributors - and readers:
The frequency of these e-circulars varies anywhere from approx. weekly up to fortnightly, driven essentially by work and personal priorities. Therefore, to give your event the best possible chance of inclusion (unless I forget! - has happened very occasionally), try to get your information to me at least a month in advance, preferably using the standard format I employ for most entries - see below - and preferably with a max. length of 50 to 75 words. Otherwise I have to edit text down to a reasonable length, and editing takes time! A Myspace (or similar) web link for music samples is a good idea too.

George Hotel, South Molton (map) www.georgehotelsouthmolton.co.uk Bookings 01769 572514.
Also somewhat out of our normal coverage area, but a great programme which includes...
Saturday 24 November 2012 - Dick Gaughan
Saturday 15 December 2012 - Reg Meuross
Saturday 2 February 2013 - Gigspanner
Saturday 9 March 2013 - Phillip Henry & Hannah Martin

New Acoustic Night in Kingsbridge
Like an open mike with no mike. Calling all musicians – guitarists, singers, singer/ songwriters – acoustic, pop, rock, jazz, bluegrass, folk, country etc - players and singers. 4th Thursday of each month at 8.30pm, starts 27 September2012. Upstairs at the Function Room, 7 Stars, Mill Street, Kingsbridge. Come early (from 8pm) to book a spot, or just come to watch. All welcome. Hosted by Mahrey Berthoud and Nicola Gascoyne, call 01548 853593 or 01548 830936 for more info.

Session news
The 3rd Sunday in the month session at The Dolphin, Sutton Harbour, Plymouth no longer runs.

[Ed: There follows a one-off listing for a very worthy cause; Neil and Gill White do a fantastic job putting on these concerts:]
New CD Release - "The Crabshell Concerts 2005-2012"
An hour of music from the tradition generously donated by every act featured in the 29 Crabshell Concerts:
Orpheus Supertones, Jeff Davis with Brian Peters, Bayou Seco, Ira Bernstein & Riley Baugus, The Carrivick Sisters, Jeff Warner, Beverly Smith & Carl Jones, Albemarle Ramblers, Simon Mayor & Hilary James, Debby McClatchy, Phil Beer, Julie Felix, Pete Coe, Kate Lissauer, Sid Kipper, Sara Grey, Tom, Brad & Alice
Some of the most admired and respected players from both sides of the Atlantic who, amongst them, have sold out the Royal Albert Hall; achieved championship honours; broken audience records; starred on TV, film and radio and won accolades galore. Superb performers at the top of their powers, every one has earned worldwide acclaim.
ON SALE at the Crabshell Inn or from Crabshell Records, 2 Clipper Quay, Embankment Road, Kingsbridge, TQ7 1SJ. f10, or £12 with P&P (£14.50 abroad) cheques payable to Crabshell Records. Any profits entirely dedicated to promoting, in and around Kingsbridge, live, professional music of the tradition. Crabshell Records is a not-for-profit unincorporated association.

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Plymouth Community Choir update:
Because of influx of new members, moving to a bigger better from Mon 16 April - at St Barnabas Church, St Barnabas Terrace, PL1 5NN from 6.45-8.45pm. Details from Alison on 01363 774324 (www.alising.co.uk) or Jean on 01752 217479.

South Hams session updates:
Royal Oak, Malborough is now only once a month, on the second Wednesday.
Kings Arms, Kingsbridge - new session, last Wednesday of every month, mixed music and song.

Free reed instrument repairs
I don't normally do 'commerical' ads, but I am more than happy to give a one-off mention for Nigel and Sarah Sture's brand new website www.concertinas-uk.co.uk "The home of free reed instrument (concertinas, melodeons etc.) repairs and concertina sales". Based in the South Hams, they have been stalwarts of the local folk scene for many years - and great supporters of Harberton Folk.

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Live music at The Windjammer pub in Dartmouth:
Monthly open mic nights
From 7.30pm on the second Sunday of each month - call Matt on 07427 463513 if you want to join in. Salcombe folksters Storm have asked to come back in March. Encouragingly a lot of our performers have been aged from 15 to 20, enjoying the chance to perform in a warm and supportive environment.

Folk news slightly further afield:
Somerset & Dorset (SADFOLK) folk events
A regular and comprehensive emailed listing is available through www.sadfolk.co.uk (Somerset and Dorset folk) for folk events in venues large and small in those two counties, some of which are not too far away from the Harberton Folk area. Steve who runs this has over 800 contacts on his list.
North Devon www.shammickacoustic.org.uk - website listings
...and not forgetting www.flaxey-green.co.uk (and www.devonfolk.co.uk) for further detailed Devon listings, including many regular pub sessions,  folk dance clubs and much more.

Want to see what the all-new (really!) youthful Albion Band looks and sounds like?
See www.thealbionband.com (not even Ashley Hutchings is in it.)

Feature: The Brewhouse, Theatre & Arts Centre, Taunton
The Brewhouse, Coal Orchard, Taunton, Somerset, TA1 1JL, Box Office: 01823 283244 (map)
OK, it's well outside my normal coverage area but easily accessible, and they've asked me to publicise their folk events. (Local TV news very recently reported that The Brewhouse has lost a large chunk of its funding.)
Saturday 17 March 7.45pm - Croabh Rua
St Patrick's Day special. A rich sound, acounstically driven, this is traditional celtic fare at its best. www.thebrewhouse.net/main-house/1241/croabh-rua
Wednesday 9 May - Blazin' Fiddles - the only SW tour date (probably)

1-2-1 Melodeon Tuition
Ed Rennie, lead tutor with the Devon Squeezebox Foundation, is currently teaching melodeon to a number of people on a 1-2-1 basis at their homes. The advantage from the students' point of view is the courses are tailored to their needs and progress at their pace and they get to stay at home in the warm and dry and Ed does all the running about in the cold and dark! Ed has a number of students he visits once a month in the West Dartmoor/Plymouth area (Mary Tavy to Saltash). He has capacity to take on some more students in the area, so if you would be interested to learn the melodeon at home with Ed, give him a shout at devonsqueezebox@hotmail.co.uk. Melodeon hire also available.

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A Music Section for the Devonshire Association
The Devonshire Association www.devonassoc.org.uk which this year celebrates the 150th anniversary of its foundation will launch a new Music Section at The Plough Theatre, Torrington on Monday 13 February 2012.
An inaugural (business) meeting for members will be followed by an
Informal concert at 8pm in Theatre Foyer, featuring members who have been working to set up the Section, including Paul Wilson and Marilyn Tucker of Wren Music, Tom and Barbara Brown, Jim Causley, Chris Caldwell & Susie Hodder-Williams of Music on the Edge, Alan Rosevear, Dartmoor dialect singer Bill Murray, and Roots Acoustic (one of Wren Music’s county-wide youth bands led by Becki Driscoll). Concert free of charge, ends 10.30pm, non-members welcome.
The new Section plans to hold a series of prestigious events in S, N and E Devon over the next twelve months to promote the wide variety of music that has been or is being written and performed by Devon-based artists, and will be linking with the Baring Gould Folk Festival over the weekend of 27/28 October 2012.
The Music Section is to “promote and recognise music that is indigenous to or inspired by the County of Devon, through performance and study of all styles of music and musicians that demonstrate a connection with the county and its particular qualities”. It aims to organise musical events that both entertain and inform, drawing on all types of music created in Devon, from traditional and contemporary to classical, folk, jazz and rock. In the spirit of the Devonshire Association the section will promote both the study of music that is rooted in the county and foster musical creativity among its members. Musicians and non-musicians with a pride in music associated with Devon should find the new section a place to widen their appreciation of the county and a compelling reason to join the Devonshire Association. For more details contact the secretary to the Section, Alan Rosevear (01392 277271; rosevear1[at]aol.com, Brook Green House, Well Street, Exeter, EX4 6QE),

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More folk coming to East Devon
Richie Evans, whose comprehensive music listings for E Devon are reproduced under 'Richie's East Devon Diary' on www.harbertonfolk.co.uk (and soon to appear directly on his own website, as I understand), is moving into higher end music promoting, especially in Folk, Acoustic and Roots music and aims to . put these events on on Sunday evenings throughout the year. His first major confirmed booking is Andy Irvine (Planxty, Patrick Street etc.), and he will be appearing at The Grapevine, Exmouth, on Sunday 15 April 2012. Details of all events will be available on the Grapevine's website in the music section at www.grapevineexmouth.com. Tickets are now on sale for Andy Irvine, priced £14 plus booking fee at www.wegottickets.com/event/151047.

Totnes Session News
Simon and Sue Williams report: "We have decided not to continue with the Kingsbridge Cocktail, as we’re overcommitted and there do seem to be plenty of things on in Totnes, for those who want to perform. If anybody would like to take it over, though, we’d be happy to support them.
There’s already an open mic session in the Kingsbridge every Wednesday, as we understand, which is open to song, music, poems and other performance forms. There’s also the Totnes Traditional Singing Session in the Bay Horse, also on a Wednesday, so you have to take your pick. Then there’s Mama Tokus’s Tongue Sandwich, first one Weds (18th) in The Barrel House."

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Feature: Concert programme for the Church House, South Tawton, nr Okehampton (map)
Intimate cosy venue. Seven Stars across the road, or BYO drinks. Advanced booking recommended due to limited capacity. Tickets from Mark or Sarah Bazeley on 01837 840775. See www.liveandacoustic.co.uk for further details.
Friday 24 February 8pm - Mick Groves with Nick Wyke and Becki Driscoll
Former 'Spinner' Mick joins forces with the Devon based fiddle duo Nick and Becki to bring us an evening filled with music and song, both old and new.
Sold out Friday 23rd March - Andy Cutting
Friday 11 May 8pm - Issy & David Emeney with Kate Riaz
Issy, David and Kate perform a mix of traditional and original songs and tunes accompanied on an array of instruments including melodeon, cello and guitar. Beautiful melodies, great stories and terrific arrangements have become a trademark. “A must for folk lovers.” Vin Garbutt. 'truly astonishing musicians - quite brilliant - you’ll rarely see better” Tom and Barbara Brown. “A very talented trio - fine songs, great harmonies and excellent accompaniments” Pete Coe. “Make sure you see them - you won’t be disappointed” EDS Magazine

Feature - Live music evenings at Totnes FM Studio Lounge (map)
A variety of live music is now happening in the intimate atmosphere of the Studio Lounge (with bar) at 'The Voice Of South Devon', Unit A, The Scope Complex, Wills Road, Totnes TQ9 5XN www.totnesfm.co.uk, including:
Saturday 4 February 2012 8pm - Nicky Swann -
Doors 7pm. + special guests. Since launching her solo career in 2006 Nicky Swann has achieved a growing reputation in such a short space of time, singing from the heart and captivating audiences with her emotionally honest delivery.
Coming soon: 10/2 Darren Fisher; 3/3 Katie Marie & Keith Jones; 17/2 Simon Scott
See full details at www.livemusictotnes.com/#/whats-on/4558438373.

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Somewhat out of our normal coverage area, but a great programme...
George Hotel, South Molton (map) www.georgehotelsouthmolton.co.uk Bookings 01769 572514.
Saturday 25 February 8.30pm - North Sea Gas (Scottish)
Friday 16 March 8.30pm - Craobh Rua - St Patrick Tour
Saturday 31 March 8pm - Appalachia - A Shammick Abroad concert

Totnes Singing Session & Radio Programme
"The Totnes Singing Session, which I was running at the Albert Inn in Bridgetown, is now going to be held at the Bay Horse Inn, every Wednesday at 8.30pm. It's still unaccompanied, trad, British and Irish.
Also, Sam Richards and I are going to be starting a monthly folk programme on Soundart Radio called Roots Britannia. We will be covering as much of the folk music and dance scene of South Devon and further afield as we can. We are having a party to launch the programme which will be at the Kingsbridge Inn, Totnes on the 20th January at 8pm. We are looking for local folkies to perform at this party and we are also looking for people later on to come and play in the studio. We will also plan to start recording at any sessions and clubs that are open to such things so as to gather material for the programme. This will be an opportunity for free advertising for any sessions, clubs and performers that want to be involved. - Will Fox"

Feature: New series of concerts coming to St Mary's Church, Brixton (map) nr Plymouth
All proceeds towards much needed repairs and building work. Tickets £6, reservations to PCC secretary on 01752 881638. Refreshments available. Full details of all concerts at www.brixton-village.co.uk/folkconcerts.htm (and in the Harberton Folk Diary):
Saturday 17 March - Lucy Ward
+ support. Lucy has a phenomenal voice and is twice nominated in this year's Radio 2 Folk Awards. She plays guitar and concertina and has a lovely array of material that takes in both modern and traditional folk as well as her own pieces. www.lucywardsings.com
Thursday 26 April - Richard Grainger & Chris Parkinson
+ support. Richard has an unforgettable voice quality and a great repertoire; Chris is one of the most talented and respected accordion and melodeon players in the business. They are a terrific combination! www.myspace.com/richardgrainger www.chrisparkinsonmusic.co.uk
Friday 1 June - Sarah McQuaid
+ support. "Brilliant musicianship, a warm and welcoming stage presence and a voice as rich, matured and knowing as the finest thrice-distilled Irish malt whiskey." www.sarahmcquaid.com

Feature: Jurassic Folk & Acoustic - Grove Nite Club, Seaton (map)
...has basically been running as a singers club for nearly 5 years. "Things have been going well, with regular attendances of 60 - 70, and this has encouraged us to take the step of starting up regular monthly Guest Nights (1st Weds) in addition to the regular Singers Nights (3rd Weds), but exceptions will occur if we need to change a date to get a specific guest artist, which it has for the first one:"
Thursday 9 February 2012 8.15pm - Tim Van Eyken
The long awaited return of a great singer and musician to the folk scene after 3 years acting in War Horse and other productions. Award-winner solo and with Dr Faustus & Waterson Carthy. Check his sound at www.timvaneyken.co.uk and www.myspace.com/timvaneyken
Wednesday 7 March 2012 8.15pm - Tim Edey Collective
Tim Edey is quite simply the best exponent on both button accordion and guitar in the Celtic music genre. A double 2012 Folk Awards nominee. Samples at www.myspace.com/timedey.
Wednesday 4 April 2012 8.15pm - Lucy Ward
Brilliant young singer, double nominee for 2012 Folk Awards, she could turn the dictionary into a song to die for. Headed for great things, catch her now! Samples at www.lucywardsings.com.
All shows (inc support) 8.15pm. Tickets £5 adv / £6 door (if any). Advance tickets available online at www.eastdevonfolk.org or in person at any prior (3rd Weds) Jurassic Folk session. Enquiries 01297 20064 or email peter@eastdevonfolk.org.

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Stage by Stage - Recovery from Performance Anxiety/Stage Fright
A new group is starting up in Harbertonford for musicians/singers/poets/storytellers or anyone who performs, but is held back by fear of performing. I have started this group up as I wanted something for my own stage fright, but couldn't find anything. The idea is to provide a supportive, non-pressurised setting for people to share their experiences and perform (if they feel ready) to a small group of people who understand what it feels like to forget words/shake/want the ground to swallow you up/panic etc... Nobody will be made to perform, and those that do will feel no pressure to do any more than they are ready to do. It is my hope that this group will be a stepping stone to help people get back out there to share what they can do with a wider audience. For more details, please contact me on 0752 7006 437 or email at stagebystage11@gmail.com.

Computer scam warning
I'm always very wary of any request (and I receive many) to forward warnings of "deadly viruses that will destroy your hard disk…" etc. as such emails are practically always hoaxes (just pick a few salient words from any such email, Google them together and this will usually yield descriptions of the hoax).
HOWEVER (and this scam is somewhat different)…
I know for a fact that a number of Harberton residents have recently received one or more 'international' calls (foreign, Indian sounding) purporting to be from Microsoft support or similar, saying that the person's computer had been reporting potentially damaging faults and the caller would talk the person through sorting it out.
If you were to fall for the chat, you would be giving the caller remote access to your computer, which they then utilise to create faults/errors which they then offer to clear for a fee (about £70-80). Having gained access to your card details, they can help themselves - more than once - and leave you with a faulty computer.
Be warned. They can be persistent and convincing.

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Workshops in N Devon
'Dealing with Nerves in performance' (14-16/10 & 11-13/11) Learn techniques developed by teachers, performers and psychologists alike to stop negative thought patterns and enable a more relaxed mind while performing. For any instruments. With harpist Sarah Deere-Jones. 'Home Recording' (23-25/9 & 28-30/10) Learn how to produce a professional quality master CD on your own computer, software provided. With Phil Williams. More details available on the 'Courses' page on www.cornwallharpcentre.co.uk

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The editorial bit - "Listen to the music":
"Not intended as a regular feature in these e-circulars, but occasionally I like to share a few thoughts which may be of interest.
I try to encourage contributors to the website Diary to include links to music samples on Myspace etc. in their items as I believe that good samples can help to sell tickets. Or I may often research such links myself. My work means I spend a lot of time at the computer and I enjoy listening to music whilst working, so the other day I decided to start working my way through all the music samples presently linked to in the Diary on www.harbertonfolk.co.uk, many of which are musics I'd not normally listen to. A thoroughly interesting and worthwhile exercise though - and as a direct result we're having an unexpected trip over to Otterton Mill on Fri 24th June to hear Chuck Brodsky from the US (see below). Sounds a bit like a young Dylan to my ear. Perhaps we'll see you there." - John Culf

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Trade Winds (Scoriton) / Maltsters Mash (Tuckenhay) sessions update
Simon and Sue have reluctantly decided to discontinue the monthly Maltsters Mash sessions in Tuckenhay but hope to be involved with a replacement session in the autumn. In the meantime, the last Trade Winds at Scoriton before the summer break will take place on Sun 26 June at the Tradesmans Arms. There will also be a special 2-hour Trade Winds at the Ways With Words festival at Dartington, on Sun 17 July 6pm in the Upper Gatehouse. Call 01364 631506 for further info.

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A few notes about these listings - what gets listed, what doesn't... etc.
The listings primarily include 'folk' events, mostly of a concert nature, also folk club guest nights, folk workshops, ceilidhs / barn dances etc.
'Folk' of course means many things to many people so that's partly why I also include limited coverage of some Americana, blues and other acoustic music events, but also partly because there are dedicated people/venues in the area putting on top-class performers in these fields - and they take the trouble to send me information. (The 'other musics' will generally have shorter entries and fewer repeats.)
My preferred length for entries is 50-75 words, 100 words max. This length restriction, combined with a 'selection of events only', means that the overall length of each e-circular does not become excessive (and unduly sleep-inducing!). The full open-ended Diary is always available on www.harbertonfolk.co.uk.
If you're submitting stuff to me for inclusion, why not give a web link to online music samples? Most performers have them these days. And there's then a chance the reader will take a listen, perhaps like what they hear, and maybe even come to a gig they wouldn't have otherwise considered!
I don't include information about regular informal pub folk sessions or folk (social) dance club material - these areas are well covered by www.flaxey-green.co.uk and www.devonfolk.co.uk. - but I will list details of new sessions, for example.
The general distance qualifier has always been 'within 30 miles as the crow flies from Totnes' (covers a surprisingly wide range), although this does get stretched a little sometimes for items of potential wider South-West interest.
The e-circulars are sent to approx. 1400 folk-specific contacts (no telling of course how many fail to arrive for whatever reason, although I do my best to maintain the email list - several repeated rejections from the same address will result in that address being deleted)  The great majority of those contacts are within the above coverage area.
And please don't be offended if I occasionally forget - or even refuse - to include an item.
Keep enjoying the live music! - John Culf

Ever thought of learning a squeezebox?
"Then have a gawp at the Devon Squeezebox Foundation website! We are running monthly workshops for English Concertina, Melodeon and Piano Accordion for all levels from absolute beginners upwards. AND we have a number of English concertinas and melodeons for hire, so if you fancy learning but have no instrument, no worries! Check out www.devonsqueezebox.co.uk or call Ed Rennie on 01363 774426 for this Autumn's workshops dates for North, South, East and West Devon."

Wren Music folk orchestras and choirs new term...
...starts in the week commencing 20th September. You don’t need to read music, there are no auditions, and it’s not a competition! Adults groups are:
Rough Music East Devon Folk Orchestra – Mondays - Broadclyst Victory Hall, EX5 3DX, led by David Faulkner
Folk Orchestra of North Devon - Mondays - Plough Arts Centre, Torrington EX38 8HQ, led by Nick Wyke & Becki Driscoll
Torbay Folk Choir– Tuesdays - Goodrington Methodist Church Hall, TQ4 7LG, led by Rosa Rebecka
Folk Orchestra of West Devon - Tuesdays - Okehampton College Room 712, EX20 1PW, led by Emma Welton
West Devon Folk Choir – Tuesdays - Okehampton College Room 617, EX20 1PW, led by Paul Wilson
Voices In Common Exeter Folk Choir - Wednesdays - Pinhoe Road Baptist Church Hall, Exeter EX4 7HZ, led by Paul Wilson
Folk Orchestra of Torbay – Thursday - Palace Theatre, Paignton TQ3 3HF, led by David Faulkner
South Molton Folk Choir - occasional Saturdays - George Hotel, South Molton EX36 3AB, led by Sarah Owen
Full details of all these, and folk choirs and bands for young people (including the county ensembles Roots A Capella and Roots Acoustic Band) at www.wrenmusic.co.uk or call 01837 53754.

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New folk festival listing website
www.ukfolkfestivals.co.uk "tries to list almost every folk music festival in the UK" [and seems to do quite a good job]

More folk/roots music on local radio - Phonic FM (106.8 in Exeter; www.phonic.fm worldwide)
Martin Henning, Rich Cooke and Martin Hodge present 'Roots & Shoots' every Monday 6-8pm. They play folk/roots music from around the world and always include local music, often featuring live music - our next scheduled performers being Mad Dog McRea on Monday 10 May.

An 'interesting' email problem
Those of you who read my recent notes about the various problems I experience when sending these e-circulars may be interested/amused to see a (new) rejection message received from a recipient at a local educational establishment. I have highlighted the offending word in bold/red and added spaces so it's not rejected again. This word appeared in the item about Hayseed Dixie:
Microsoft Antigen for Exchange found a message matching a filter. The message is currently Identified.
Message: "hf21_30 080226"
Filter name: "KEYWORD= racial discrimination: h i l l b i l l y"
Sent from: "John Culf"

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A Virus Warning - but please do read this, unlike the usual hoaxes that circulate which are simply designed to clog up the email airwaves:
"There is a dangerous virus being passed around electronically, orally, and by hand. This virus is called Weary-Overload-Recreational-Killer (WORK). If you receive WORK from any of your colleagues, your boss, or anyone else via any means DO NOT TOUCH IT. This virus will wipe out your private life completely. If you should come into contact with WORK, put your jacket on and take two good friends to the nearest grocery store. Purchase the antidote known as Work-Isolating-Neutralizer-Extract (WINE) or Bothersome-Employer-Elimination-Rebooter (BEER). Take the antidote repeatedly until WORK has been completely eliminated from your system. You should forward this warning to 5 friends. If you do not have 5 friends, you have already been infected."

'Virus' warnings - Chain emails (e.g. petrol prices) - Please avoid them
With 1400+ email contacts, if there's junk going around I usually see quite a few examples of it. If you receive a chain email, such as those that warn of a terrible virus circulating which will destroy your hard disk, do please take a moment to check before forwarding it to your entire address book. Pick out a couple of salient words and put them into Google, e.g. "olympic torch email", and you'll soon see that they are invariably hoaxes, simply designed to further clog up email servers across the globe. And whilst possibly originally well intentioned, the petrol price emails doing the rounds have essentially been around since 1999 - see http://urbanlegends.about.com/library/bl_gas_boycott_2006.htm and read the analysis/comments.

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Other interesting local music links
Plymouth Classical Music Concert Diary www.plyclassical.co.uk - Comprehensive month-by-month listings of all types of classical music in and around Plymouth, plus some jazz and folk, including Harberton Folk's events.
Plymouth Music Accord www.plymouthmusicaccord.co.uk - Registered Charity promoting the appreciation and performance of music in the Plymouth area. Members include local orchestras, bands, choirs, opera groups, etc. and many promoters and venues, and Plymouth Folk Festival (who have a brand new, smart website).
'Off topic' but we'll mention a couple of other local live music sources for different genres:
Totnes Early Music Society www.totnesearlymusic.org.uk - fairly self-explanatory

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